Historically, a key factor in the rise of empires has been success in war. For example, through conquest and alliances, the Inca subdued neighboring groups and established a kingdom based in Cuzco. Leadership, too, is another important factor in empire-building. The Inca used military and diplomatic skills to create an extensive Andean empire. However, controlling a large territory is impossible without an effective system of government. The Inca established a chain of command that reached down to the family level.